[Quality of life of individuals with mild cognitive impairment]

Abstract

Background: Studies on quality of life in people with mild cognitive disorders are rare and show inconsistent results.

Methods: A representative population survey of 997 older individuals (60 - 69 y., 70 - 79 y., 80+ y.) was conducted. Study participants were interviewed face-to-face. Core instrument for the assessment of cognitive performance was the DemTect. Quality of life (QOL) was measured with the WHOQOL-BREF in four domains (physical, psychological, social, and environment domains) and the add-on module WHOQOL-OLD, which contains 24 items in six facets.

Results: Older people with mild cognitive impairment showed a significantly reduced QOL compared to their cognitively healthy counterparts. This holds true for the physical, psychological, social, and environment domains of the WHOQOL-BREF and in five of the six facets covered by the instrument WHOQOL-OLD (with exception of the facet which assesses worries about death and dying). Influences of socio-demographic indicators and health related aspects on QOL are assessed.

Conclusions: The fact, that mild cognitive disorders are associated with such a significant reduction in QOL for those affected, received little attention so far and may warrant interventions.